FOLLOWING nine losses in their last 11 games, Coventry Blaze head coach Danny Stewart has confirmed a change to his side’s roster.
Outgoing forward skater Darcy Zajac will make way for centreman Taylor Carnevale, who posted an impressive 45 points – 15 goals and 30 assists – in 34 games with the EC Kassel Huskies.
The move comes following disappointing defeats for the Blaze, including two home losses to both Fife and Belfast while also losing out on the road to the Edinburgh Capitals.
Zajac’s departure comes after he clocked three goals and one assists in 12 games for the Blaze.
New man Carnevale, a native of Mississauga in Canada, helped Kassel Huskies lift the DEL2 Championship last season and has previously iced in Austria with HC Bolzano.
Carnevale’s first full professional season took place in 2013/14, icing for DEL2 side Bad Nauheim.
The 25-year-old quickly established himself as an offensive force, totalling 51 points in 45 games.
The forward also caught the attention of NHL giants LA Kings and AHL side Worcester Shark’s during his youth spell before finally signing a contract with the ECHL’s Utah Grizzlies.
Carnevale is set to make his debut on Friday as Blaze travel to Belfast for two games in just 24 hours before flying home to face the Cardiff Devils in a Challenge Cup tie on Sunday.
Head Coach Danny Stewart said: “Taylor will bring us some creativity up the middle – he can score goals and distribute as well.
“He will bring some much needed poise on the puck, something we are maybe lacking right now.”
“We thank Darcy, he was a true professional and teammate during his time here and wish him the best.”
